CAMP OKEMA (Skwn) — The ACW Ladies’ Day Out was held at Camp Okema from June 8 to 11. Noreen Hareuther was the speaker, continuing with her series of Women in the Bible. This year’s topic was 10 chapters on Esther.
The sessions were done in the “discipleship” style. Noreen introduced herself and gave a bio and began each session with a prayer from the Advent 2 Collect in the BCP. Each person read and had a turn to say what stood out and then discuss or ask questions.
The retreat started on Monday afternoon, giving the ladies an opportunity to come and relax or do a craft, join in evening and compline prayer, or enjoy the peaceful nature.
The Rev. Kathleen Stewart led Morning Prayer with Tuesday readings: remembering Columba, Abbot of Iona, Ireland and Scotland in AD 597.
In 1 Peter 2:5-9 it says you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a royal priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. Also, Ephesians 2:20 says to built on the foundation of the precious cornerstone of the apostles and prophets to become a dwelling where the Spirit lives.
In between the sessions on Esther, the women had time for music or different crafts of making cards, wreaths and painted “garden” signs, or designed structures with plant pots. Louise, Marge, Violet (Goodfellow), Betty Lynn, Mae Audit, president Opal Harris, Eva, and Sharon Chesley all gathered around the tables discussing Vashti.
Did you know Vashti was banished and the king held a “beauty pageant” for a new queen?
Everyone always enjoys the bonfire, toasting large marshmallows. At camp, there is potluck, food, dish duty, and other chores that need attention. It is so wonderful to have conversation while you work! Some shared crafts.
The Rev. Pat Martin celebrated Holy Communion on Thursday.
There were 10, including Noreen. To make it viable, 15 is ideal. The cost was $60 this year but may go up next year.
June 1, 2027, is planned for the next Ladies’ Day Out camp. Bring a friend!